29.4.26 – Williamson’s Park

Pupils visited Williamson’s Park to develop their geographical fieldwork skills through practical, outdoor learning. During the visit the children used simple positional and directional vocabulary such as near, far, next to, behind and in front to describe locations to their partners (e.g. The tree is next to the bush). This supported early understanding of giving and following directions, which will prepare them for future lessons using compass points (north, south, east and west).

Task 1

1. Stand with your partner.
2. Choose something to look at (tree, path, bench).
3. Point to it.
4. Say where it is using direction words:
   • near, far, next to, behind, in front, left, right
5. Say a full sentence:
   • The tree is next to the path.
6. Swap roles and choose something new.
7. Do this 3 times

While exploring the park, pupils applied their knowledge of human and physical geographical features, successfully identifying and discussing elements within the environment. Cross-curricular links were also made with science, as pupils observed that the sun (a light source) was reflecting off the water, helping them understand that water reflects light rather than producing it.

In a follow-up activity, pupils directed their partners to chosen locations using simple directional language such as forwards, backwards, left and right. This practical experience will support their progression to using compasses to guide partners around the school environment in future lessons.

Task 2

1. One person is the leader, one is the follower.
2. The leader gives directions using clear words.
3. The follower listens and follows exactly.
4. Use these words:
   • forward
   • stop
   • left
   • right
   • next to
   • near
5. Walk safely and slowly.
6. Swap roles.
7. Repeat 3 times.